How to Install Your Samsung Refrigerator Water Filter

Install the filter before you plug in the refrigerator

The Samsung refrigerator water filter goes in before you connect power or water. Most Samsung models use one of two filter locations: a cartridge that twists into the base grille (bottom front), or one that slides into a housing under the crisper drawer. Check your model's manual to find which type you have — the manual came in the box or is available on Samsung's support website by entering your model number.

Installing the filter first prevents air from getting trapped in the water line, which can cause sputtering at the ice maker or water dispenser. It also means you won't have to flush the system as long afterward. The whole job takes about five minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Samsung filters install in one of two places: a twist-in cartridge at the base grille, or a slide-in cartridge under the crisper drawer — your manual tells you which.
• Always install the filter before connecting water or power to avoid air pockets in the line.
• Most cartridges come with a protective cap you must remove, and some need a quarter-turn counterclockwise to unlock before twisting out.
• After installation, run water through the dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes to flush the system and remove carbon dust from the new filter.
• Samsung filters typically last six months or 300 gallons, whichever comes first — your refrigerator will alert you when replacement is due.

Locate the filter housing in your Samsung model

Open your refrigerator manual and search for "water filter" or "filter installation." The manual will show you a diagram of your exact model. Most Samsung refrigerators fall into one of two categories: base grille filters (common on French-door and side-by-side models) or under-crisper filters (common on bottom-freezer models).

For a base grille filter, look at the bottom front of the refrigerator, below the doors. You will see a grille panel. The filter cartridge sits behind this grille, usually on the right side. For an under-crisper filter, you will need to remove the crisper drawer (the clear plastic bin at the bottom of the fridge section) to access the filter housing above it.

If you cannot find the filter location after checking the manual, call Samsung customer service at 1-800-726-7864 or visit samsung.com/us/support and enter your model number. They can confirm the filter type and location in seconds.

Remove the protective cap and old filter if present

New filters come with a plastic protective cap covering the inlet. Twist or pull this cap off — it is not part of the filter itself. If your refrigerator is brand new, there may be a blank cartridge or a temporary filter already in the housing. Remove it by twisting counterclockwise (most models) or pulling straight out, depending on the type.

Some Samsung models require you to press a release button or lever on the side of the old cartridge before it will come free. Check your manual for the exact motion. If the cartridge is stuck, do not force it — a gentle rocking motion while twisting usually frees it.

Insert the new filter and twist or slide it into place

For a twist-in filter (base grille type), align the cartridge with the opening and push it straight in until you feel resistance. Then twist it clockwise about a quarter turn until it stops. You should hear or feel a click. Do not over-tighten — a snug quarter-turn is enough.

For a slide-in filter (under-crisper type), insert the cartridge into the housing slot and push it straight in until it clicks or seats fully. Some models have a lever you flip down to lock it in place after sliding. Your manual will show the exact motion for your model.

After installation, close the grille panel or replace the crisper drawer. The filter is now ready for water to flow through it.

Flush the system for 3 to 5 minutes before using water or ice

Before you drink water or make ice, run the water dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes straight into a sink or pitcher. This flushes carbon dust and air from the new filter. The water may look slightly gray or cloudy at first — this is normal and will clear as you continue running it.

If you have an ice maker, do not make ice during this flush period. After the water runs clear, make and discard the first two batches of ice (about 20 cubes total) before using ice for drinks. This ensures the ice maker line is also clear of dust and air.

Connect water supply and power after the filter is installed

Once the filter is in and the system is flushed, you can connect the water line to the refrigerator's inlet valve. Most Samsung models have a compression fitting on the back or side where the water line attaches. Hand-tighten the fitting until it is snug, then use a wrench to turn it one more half-turn. Do not over-tighten, as this can crack the fitting.

After the water line is connected, plug the refrigerator into power. The refrigerator will take 4 to 8 hours to reach full cooling temperature. During this time, the ice maker will not produce ice — this is normal. Once the refrigerator is cold, the ice maker will begin filling.

Monitor the filter status indicator light

Most Samsung refrigerators have a filter status light on the control panel or inside the fridge. This light is usually blue or green when the filter is new and working. As the filter fills with sediment and chlorine, the light will change color — typically to yellow or orange — to signal that replacement is coming due.

When the light turns red or the display shows a filter replacement message, you have a few weeks left before the filter stops working well. Samsung filters are rated for 300 gallons or six months, whichever comes first. Order a replacement cartridge before the light turns red so you do not run out of filtered water. Replacement filters are available from Samsung, Amazon, or most appliance retailers for $30 to $60 depending on the model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to turn off the water before installing the filter?

No. The filter installs into an empty housing before water is connected. Once the filter is in place and the housing is sealed, you can connect the water line. If you are replacing an old filter while the water is already connected, turn off the water supply valve (usually under the sink or behind the refrigerator) before removing the old cartridge to avoid spillage.

What if water leaks from the filter housing after installation?

The most common cause is an incomplete seal. Remove the filter, check that the protective cap was fully removed, and look for any cracks or debris in the housing opening. Reinstall the filter, making sure it clicks or seats fully. If the leak continues, the housing itself may be cracked — contact Samsung support for a replacement housing.

Can I use my refrigerator without a water filter installed?

Yes, but only if your model has a bypass plug. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, Samsung includes a bypass cartridge (a blank plug) that seals the housing when no filter is present. This prevents water from leaking out. Install the bypass plug in the same way you would install a filter if you choose not to use filtered water.

How do I know which Samsung filter model I need?

Check your refrigerator's manual or the filter housing itself — the model number is usually printed on the cartridge or the housing cover. Common Samsung filter models include DA29-00003G, DA29-00020B, and HAF-CIN. You can also enter your refrigerator's model number on Samsung's website to see which filters are compatible.

Why is my water dispenser sputtering after I installed the new filter?

Air is trapped in the water line. Continue running the dispenser for another 2 to 3 minutes without stopping. The air will work its way out and the water will flow smoothly. If sputtering continues after 5 minutes of running, turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and reinstall it to reseat it fully.